StartUp Spokane and the Spokane Independent Metro Business Alliance, or SIMBA, are partnering to expand business programming and resources for local entrepreneurs.

SIMBA will serve as the primary program provider, enhancing access to business education while allowing events to be booked beyond the standard scheduling windows of Spokane Public Library and Spokane County Library District.

“By working with SIMBA, we’re ensuring Spokane entrepreneurs have more opportunities to learn, connect, and grow,” says Mark Pond, business research librarian at Spokane Public Library, in a press release.

StartUp Spokane is an entrepreneurial collaboration between the city and county library districts that provides free access to business resources. It was established in 2012 by Greater Spokane Incorporated and acquired by the library districts in 2023.

Founded in 2018, SIMBA is a nonprofit that supports Eastern Washington businesses and entrepreneurs through advocacy, education, and direct support.